So I’ve been thinking about theories of leadership that are based in human connection, valuing people over profits, and community over power games. Here are a couple programs that inspire me with hope for future generations:

1. Kiwanis Service Leadership Trainings: “Kiwanis International empowers people at every stage of life to become competent, capable and compassionate leaders by helping them learn to help others. Through its Service Leadership Programs, Kiwanis enables its youth and adult leaders to serve their communities, opening doors for them to change the world.”

Doors that will change the world…. I think some doors can change the world in really good ways. And some doors should never be opened. Maybe that’s the difference between good leadership and bad leadership: I like the Kiwanis celebration of competent, capable and compassionate.

2. National Youth Leadership Council: “We recognize youth as partners in decision-making. When given the opportunity to lead, youth understand their right and obligation to act in the benefit of the public good. From young people who are affected by issues, to adult allies who work with them, we actively build shared leadership that creates space for each person to take ownership and affect change.”

This is so important! Their values are: audacity, diversity, integrity, growth and learning. Audacity as a part of service — that’s such a bold idea for leadership.

So what are your values for service leadership in your life? What do you think we should pass on to our children? How can we help them learn that service, not being served, defines a leader?